Hairless

Hairless rats are domestic fancy rats selected for little to no coat, leaving pink, mottled, or darker skin visible across the body. The label covers more than one line or mutation in Rattus norvegicus domestica, so appearance can vary: some have short fuzz on the face or ankles, some have curly or brittle whiskers, and others look nearly bare. They are sometimes confused with double rex rats, which can also become patchy or almost naked, but true hairless lines are usually bred specifically for the lack of normal fur.

Because fur helps protect skin and regulate temperature, hairless rats need especially stable indoor housing, soft low-dust bedding, and protection from direct sun, drafts, and rough cage furnishings. Scratches show quickly, and long nails or assertive cage mates can cause small wounds. Their skin may feel warm or slightly oily; frequent bathing usually makes irritation worse. Breeding hairless rats requires caution, as some lines have had nursing, immune, or general vigor problems. For most homes, a well-socialized hairless rat can live comfortably with coated companions if warmth, hygiene, and gentle handling are taken seriously.

Colors: Black Skin, Mottled Skin, Pink Skin